KINGS COUNTY, CALIFORNIA — A devastating head-on collision on Sunday morning has left five people dead after a vehicle attempting to pass traffic crashed into an oncoming car. Authorities say the violent impact caused one of the vehicles to burst into flames, turning the crash into a tragic scene of loss.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash happened at approximately 10:30 a.m. along California State Route 41 just south of York Avenue. Emergency crews were dispatched to the area after reports of a serious collision involving two vehicles.

Investigators say a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado was traveling southbound when the driver attempted to pass slower-moving traffic. During the maneuver, the truck crossed into the northbound lane, where it collided head-on with a white 2022 Toyota Prius traveling in the opposite direction.

The force of the crash caused the Chevrolet Silverado to overturn and become fully engulfed in flames. The driver of the truck and three passengers inside were pronounced dead at the scene. The intensity of the fire made the situation even more devastating for responders.

The driver of the Toyota Prius, identified as 35-year-old Jose Ramos of Oakdale, California, also suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities later identified one of the victims in the Silverado as Jaden Garza, along with his sister and her friend, though the names of the remaining victims have not yet been released.

Officials say it is still unclear whether drugs or alcohol played a role in the crash. The California Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances leading up to the collision as the community mourns the tragic loss of five lives in a single, heartbreaking incident.